Brief

Paris Saint‑Germain winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia suffers season‑ending ACL rupture

The Georgian winger was forced off in the 4‑2 Champions League victory over Barcelona and will undergo surgery, while teammates Ousmane Dembélé and Marquinhos also face weeks of treatment.

By Felo News Desk · Published Wed, 21 Oct 2026 12:48:11 GMT

Paris Saint‑Germain confirmed on Friday that winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee, an injury that will keep him out for the rest of the season.

What happened

Kvaratskhelia was injured during PSG’s 4‑2 Champions League win over Barcelona on Tuesday evening. He was forced off just before the hour‑mark after twisting his knee while sprinting back to make a tackle on Xavi Espart, according to the club’s statement. The 25‑year‑old was unable to put weight on his right leg and was helped off the pitch.

In the same match, Ousmane Dembélé was substituted in the 19th minute with a thigh injury, and captain Marquinhos left in the second half after a similar issue. PSG said both will receive treatment and are expected to miss several weeks.

What the reports add

The Independent noted that Kvaratskhelia, who was named Champions League Player of the Season last campaign, will undergo surgery in the coming days and that his injury is a significant blow to PSG’s bid for a third consecutive Champions League title. The Guardian added that Kvaratskhelia is also a contender for the upcoming Ballon d’Or, highlighting the broader impact of his absence.

What was said

PSG’s official statement said Kvaratskhelia “will undergo surgery after rupturing the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.” The club also confirmed that Dembélé and Marquinhos “will have treatment for the next few weeks.”

How it came about

Kvaratskhelia joined PSG from Napoli in January 2025 and has been a key contributor, scoring 10 goals and providing six assists in 16 Champions League appearances last season. His injury follows a series of high‑profile setbacks for elite athletes, echoing recent Felo News coverage of season‑ending injuries to players such as Terry McLaurin and Mason Heintschel.

Key facts

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia ruptured the ACL in his right knee during PSG's 4‑2 Champions League win over Barcelona. (independent.co.uk)
The injury will require surgery and will rule him out for the rest of the season. (independent.co.uk)
Ousmane Dembélé and captain Marquinhos also suffered thigh injuries in the same match and will miss several weeks. (theguardian.com)